Kaiser Hot Springs – Wikieup, AZ

Although Kaiser Hot Springs is often overlooked by visitors to Wikieup, it’s definitely worth a visit. This serene natural hot springs is tucked away within the White Mountain Apache reservation and features several outdoor soaking tubs surrounded by forests and tall trees.

This place has so much to offer visitors – swimming, fishing, hiking, boating and other recreational activities are all possible here. Let this blog be your go-to resource for the best things to do at Kaiser Hot Springs – Wikieup, Arizona!

Things you need to know before getting to Kaiser Hot Springs

Kaiser Hot Springs is a remote hot spring located in Wikieup, Arizona. The nearest city is Kingman, which is about an hour’s drive away. The springs are set in a beautiful, natural desert landscape and are a popular destination for hikers, campers, and nature lovers.

The temperature of the water in the springs ranges from about 104 to 108 degrees Fahrenheit, making them some of the hottest hot springs in the area. They are a great place to relax and rejuvenate after a long hike or day of exploring the desert.

There are no amenities for travelers at Kaiser Hot Springs, so be sure to bring everything you need with you. There are no camping or parking sites near the springs, so be prepared to park on the side of the road and hike in. The hike is only about a quarter mile, but it can be quite hot and arduous in the summer months.

The geography and history of Kaiser Hot Springs are quite fascinating. The springs were discovered by a group of cowboys in the early 1900s and were used as a watering hole for their cattle. Over time, word spread about the natural wonder and it became a popular destination for people from all over the area.

The culture of Kaiser Hot Springs is rich and unique. The people who live in nearby Wikieup are a friendly bunch and always happy to share a story or two about their hometown. They are proud of their small town charm and down-to-earth attitude.

How to get there

A walk along a dry river bed that is about a mile long and moderate in difficulty is required to reach the Kaiser hot springs. Even if the path to the Kaiser hot springs isn’t marked, you shouldn’t worry about getting lost because it’s really easy to follow. You can walk down under the bridge after parking your vehicle along the side of the road. This will allow you to start your journey.

Your aching muscles will begin to feel better as soon as you turn the curve and witness water pouring out of the ground and flowing out around the earthen pools. The location is easy to discover because it is just along the trail.

As you make your way down the mountain, take in the scenery since there are no trail markings guiding the route – just be aware that due to the terrain of mud and unevenness, it’s necessary to wear a pair of hiking boots for maximum safety.

Things to do in Kaiser Hot Springs

Go for a hike

Hiking is a great way to spend a day at Kaiser Hot Springs. There are several trails around the springs that you can follow, including a trail that leads to a nearby waterfall. There are also trails that lead to a desert oasis and a series of natural swimming holes. For a scenic walk, head to the Crag Trail Trail – a 1.5-mile loop that passes by tall trees and over a bridge.

Boat on the lake

Another popular activity at Kaiser Hot Springs is boating. You can rent a boat from the marina and take a ride around the lake that’s located next to the springs. The lake is stocked with fish and has a protected barrier around it to prevent people from falling in. For the more adventurous, you can also kayak or canoe around the lake.

Swim in the natural pools

One of the best things to do at Kaiser Hot Springs is to swimmers. As you walk around the springs, you’ll discover several natural hot pools. These pools are fed by natural springs, and you can use them for either swimming or soaking. Some of the pools are cooler than others, so it’s best to do a bit of exploring before you settle on one.

Camping at Kaiser Hot Springs

If you like to get away from it all, you can camp at Kaiser Hot Springs. There are several spots where you can set up your tent. Toilets and showers are available nearby, and there’s also a store where you can buy essentials. If you want to rough it, there are several spots that don’t have electricity hookups. To stay here, you will need to purchase a permit from the Recreation.gov website.

Jump off the cliffs

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can jump off the cliffs at Kaiser Hot Springs. These cliffs are about 40 feet high and are a popular spot for BASE jumping. There are several spots in the cliffs where you can jump off, and some of them are easier than others. If you want to jump, you should be a confident swimmer. You need to be aware of the tides before you jump and make sure there aren’t any boats in the area.

Ride a horse at Kaiser Hot Springs

If you’re visiting Kaiser Hot Springs and want to combine two activities, you can ride a horse. There’s a ranch just next to the springs where you can ride a horse and take in the views. If you’ve never ridden a horse before, don’t worry – the ranch offers beginner rides. There are also trails at the ranch where you can ride if you’re a more experienced rider.

See the view from Bank’s Trail

Another thing to do at Kaiser Hot Springs is to hike to Bank’s Trail. This trail is named after the first settler in the area, William Bank. This trail is a 4.8-mile loop, so it’s a bit longer than the Crag Trail Trail. It takes about 1.5 hours to complete, so you’ll want to start early if you want to hike here. If you hike to the top of the trail, you’ll be rewarded with a 360-degree view of the surrounding area.

DO and DON’T at Kaiser Hot Springs

With these factors in mind, here’s what to keep in mind when visiting Kaiser Hot Springs:

DO

• Make sure to bring plenty of water, especially if you’re going on a mile hike.
• Check the hours of operation before visiting Kaiser Hot Springs.
• If you’re driving, be prepared for a dirt road and rough spots on the way to Kaiser Pass and Kaiser Spring Canyon.
• Consider taking an alternate route, such as the jeep trail loop, if the creek bottom road is too gnarly for your vehicle.
• Take in the beautiful views of the surrounding area, including Huntington Lake, Florence Lake, and Edison Lake.
• Take advantage of the alleged healing waters of the Kaiser Warm Spring.
• Consider booking a 4-hour round trip drive to visit Kaiser Hot Springs, Camp Sixty One, or Camp Carson.

DON’T

• Don’t assume that there will be drinking water available at the hot springs, bring your own.
• Don’t forget to check for the cost-related measures before visiting, as the fee to access Kaiser Hot Springs may vary.
• Don’t ignore warning signs of a current mining operation in the area.
• Don’t be in a hurry to reach the hot springs, as the drive to Kaiser Pass can take up to an hour.
• Don’t ignore the rough spots on the road, as it may make the drive more difficult or even cause damage to your vehicle.
• Don’t assume that you can access Kaiser Hot Springs without making advance reservations, as it may be closed to the public due to its inclusion in the Kaiser Foundation Health Plan through Kaiser Permanente.

The Weather (5 days forecast)

The weather in Wikieup changes dramatically with the seasons. In summer, temperatures can reach up to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, while winter temperatures often dip below freezing. Be sure to pack appropriately for your trip!

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Summary

Kaiser Hot Springs is a well-known destination for those seeking a relaxing retreat in natural hot springs. Situated near Huntington Lake and Florence Lake, visitors can access the hot springs via different routes, including a private road and a highway crossover. However, it’s essential to keep in mind the private property boundaries and the unpaved road that leads to the hot springs.

The water temperature at Kaiser Hot Springs varies, but visitors can take advantage of the man-made pools available for those who prefer a more controlled environment. Additionally, the hot springs are located near the Kaiser Permanente hydroelectric project and Spring Canyon, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding nature. It’s worth noting that the hot springs are a few miles from the mile marker, so visitors should plan accordingly and bring appropriate gear.

Kaiser Hot Springs is an idyllic destination for those looking to unwind and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The serene atmosphere, coupled with the natural hot springs, makes for an unforgettable experience. However, visitors should be respectful of the private property boundaries and follow the guidelines to ensure everyone’s safety. With proper preparation and an appreciation for nature, Kaiser Hot Springs guarantees a rejuvenating getaway.

Local information

Address: US-93 S, Wikieup, Arizona 85360
GPS: 34.580391,-113.491547
Season: Year-round

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